Reverend Jesse Jackson, the powerful orator who transformed American democracy and who fought for the “disinherited, the disrespected, and the discarded” for more than 60 years, has died at age 84. His relatives officially confirmed the great leader died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.
From Selma to the National Platform
Jesse Louis Jackson Sr, born in 1941 in Greenville, South Carolina, was a charismatic aide to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He was with Dr. King at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis during the tragic assassination of Dr. King in 1968, a turning point that enabled Jackson to come of age as a symbol of Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) leadership from its beginnings. Jackson founded Operation PUSH (People United to Save Humanity) in Chicago in 1971, which later became part of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition. He had a clear mission: economic empowerment for Black Americans and a “seat at the table” for all marginalized groups.
Breaking the Political Lock
The longest-lasting legacy perhaps for Jackson is his twin historic bids for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1984 and 1988.
- 1984: His campaign drew millions of new voters and demonstrated that a Black candidate could win primary states.
- 1988: He won 11 states and territories, doubling his vote count, and delivered the "Keep Hope Alive" speech still a masterclass in American political speech.
Although he failed to win the nomination, Jackson’s “Rainbow Coalition” laid the architectural foundation for subsequent leaders — notably, a blueprint behind Barack Obama’s historic victory 20 years later.
A Global Diplomat
For years Jackson was known beyond his national frontiers as a courageous international mediator. He managed to negotiate the release of American prisoners in Syria, Cuba and Iraq, regularly traversing armed conflict zones where official diplomatic engagement stalled. He was an outspoken opponent of Apartheid in South Africa and a major ally of Nelson Mandela.
Later Years and Health
Later in life, Jackson battled Parkinson’s disease; but at demonstrations and rallies, he was still seen much of the time in a wheelchair and yet still called on future generations to "Keep Hope Alive." And, even as his voice became subdued, his presence was a powerful reminder of the unfinished business of the Civil Rights Movement.
Tributes Pour In
Tributes from across the political spectrum have started pouring in. Former colleagues and even presidents in recent generations have praised him as a “consequential figure” who made America confront its own conscience.
Reverend Jesse Jackson is survived by his wife, Jacqueline, and their five children. Details of plans for a public memorial in Chicago and a homegoing service are expected soon.
